Netflix has quietly phased out a feature that allowed users to cast streaming videos from their phones to TVs, citing low usage as the reason for its removal. The move has left many viewers frustrated and wondering why the company would prioritize its own interests over user convenience.
The change affects users who want to browse Netflix on their phone and then send the video to their TV screen without having to pick up a remote control. Instead, they'll be forced to use the app on their TV, which means giving up control over volume, playback buttons, closed captioning controls, and other settings.
This move comes as Netflix has been shifting its priorities from expanding its user base to maximizing subscription revenue. The company has raised prices, cracked down on password sharing, and introduced limits on how users can access the service.
The backlash is evident on social media platforms like Reddit, where users have expressed their discontent with the decision. "Why would they take away features that are incredibly useful? Why would they make the experience worse?" reads one comment.
A Netflix representative said that the feature was only used by a small percentage of users and that the company needs to focus on those features that provide more value. However, many users see this as an attempt to squeeze more money out of them while making their viewing experience less convenient.
One user pointed out that they rely heavily on this feature because they often watch shows on their phone but don't have access to a TV remote. For them, the change is a "fundamental attack" on their ability to enjoy their favorite content.
While Netflix has acknowledged that casting from mobile devices will not work on all tiers of its service, users are still up in arms about the move, questioning why the company would prioritize its own interests over user convenience and experience.
The change affects users who want to browse Netflix on their phone and then send the video to their TV screen without having to pick up a remote control. Instead, they'll be forced to use the app on their TV, which means giving up control over volume, playback buttons, closed captioning controls, and other settings.
This move comes as Netflix has been shifting its priorities from expanding its user base to maximizing subscription revenue. The company has raised prices, cracked down on password sharing, and introduced limits on how users can access the service.
The backlash is evident on social media platforms like Reddit, where users have expressed their discontent with the decision. "Why would they take away features that are incredibly useful? Why would they make the experience worse?" reads one comment.
A Netflix representative said that the feature was only used by a small percentage of users and that the company needs to focus on those features that provide more value. However, many users see this as an attempt to squeeze more money out of them while making their viewing experience less convenient.
One user pointed out that they rely heavily on this feature because they often watch shows on their phone but don't have access to a TV remote. For them, the change is a "fundamental attack" on their ability to enjoy their favorite content.
While Netflix has acknowledged that casting from mobile devices will not work on all tiers of its service, users are still up in arms about the move, questioning why the company would prioritize its own interests over user convenience and experience.
i get it they need 2 make more $$ but cant they just find other ways 2 do it? this move is straight up frustrating and i'm def gonna miss castin vids to my tv 
I'm kinda surprised by this move from Netflix 
. On the other hand, it does seem like an effort to shift focus more towards subscription revenue rather than user convenience 
. I mean, raising prices and cracking down on password sharing can be seen as a way to maximize profits, but it's still a bit harsh for users who rely on this feature 
. It's not unreasonable to expect some consideration from the company when making decisions that impact how we use their service 
.
. I don't get why they can't just offer an alternative way to access their content on TV... like a companion app or something? It's not that hard, right? 
I swear it was so vivid! anyway back to Netflix... I feel you guys, who needs to pick up a remote when u can just control the volume and playback from your phone? 
it's like they're trying to take away our autonomy or something. have you guys tried those new instant noodles that come in packets? game changer! 
they're literally taking away something so useful just to make more cash... i mean, come on! who needs to use an app on their tv when you can just cast from your phone? it's not like we're asking for much. 
and now they're saying it was only used by a small percentage of users? that doesn't sound right to me... everyone knows people who want to watch shows on the go without having to get up from their couch. this is just another example of netflix being super greedy 
? i mean who needs that feature if its only used by a small percentage of users anyway? but like, what about all the people who rely on it?? like i do, i watch shows on my phone and dont have a tv remote lol thats so inconvenient now 
why cannt they just find another way to make money instead of taking away features that actually help us out? 
i feel like they're not really thinking about the users anymore, just how much cash they can squeeze out of us 
. I get why they don't want people messing with settings, but can't they find a way to make it work for everyone? 